Best Blue-Light-Blocking Screen Protectors

Are blue light screen protectors effective? 

Plenty of anecdotal reports claim that filtering blue light from screens provides benefits. People say blue-light-blocking products, including eyewear and screen protectors, reduce symptoms of blue light exposure such as eye irritation, headaches, and fatigue.

The scientific research surrounding the purported risks of blue light exposure and benefits of blue light reduction provides mixed results.

Research from 2016 suggests that lamps and electronic devices do not emit enough optical radiation to cause ocular damage, even during long periods of viewing. Furthermore, the radiation emitted from the devices was lower than international exposure limits and natural sunlight exposure.

“Optical radiation” is a term for the range of visible light, light that the human eye doesn’t see (such as ultraviolet, UV, and infrared), as well things like microwaves and X-rays.

According to a 2017 review of studies, there is a lack of high quality research on blue-light-filtering devices and lenses and, as a result, there is no high quality evidence that supports the effectiveness of blue-light-blocking eyewear in reducing eye fatigue, enhancing sleep quality, or boosting visual performance.

A 2020 study using Apple devices found that reducing the brightness and enabling night shift mode was more effective than a screen protector in reducing blue light intensity. Further research is required to understand the potential health benefits of using a screen protector to reduce blue light exposure.

Best blue light screen protectors

Best blue-light-blocking screen protector with privacy filter

Ocushield Anti Blue Light Screen Protector for Laptops, Monitors, and PCs

Price: $40–$105

Available in a range of sizes, the Ocushield screen protector blocks blue light from monitors and laptops. It features a privacy filter that makes your screen appear black from other angles, which is ideal for people who work in the company of others. The screen also has an antibacterial coating and anti-glare coating.

Designed by optometrists and sleep therapists, the screen protector has an MHRA Class 1 medical rating, which classifies it as a medical device in the United Kingdom.

Based on customer reviews, Ocushield has a 4.5 rating on Trustpilot. Customer reviews are mostly positive, reporting that the screen filter effectively reduced dry eyes, headaches, and eye strain.

Best blue-light-blocking mobile phone screen protector

EyeJust Blue Light Blocking iPhone Screen Protector

Price: $35–$42

The EyeJust iPhone Screen Protector blocks blue light and protects your screen from cracks, scratches, and impacts without changing the display color or brightness. It’s also oil-resistant, which helps to prevent smudging.

EyeJust products are third-party tested and ophthalmologist approved. The company offers a 2-year warranty that covers cracked or damaged screen protectors purchased from the EyeJust website.

Best blue light screen protector for a high quality visual experience

Eyesafe Blue Light Screen Filter for Apple iPad

Price: $49.99

This blue light screen filter is ideal for people who want to minimize blue light without sacrificing visual quality. Eyesafe screen filters use a patented protective film to block blue light from display screens without changing the color or brightness. The screen protector comes with dust removers, screen cleaning wipes, and a microfiber cloth.

Eyesafe consults with eye care professionals and uses third-party testing to develop blue-light-blocking products designed to protect your eye health and well-being. The products have certification from TÜV Rheinland, an organization specializing in standards related to color management and blue light filtration of digital devices.

Best blue-light-blocking filter for computers and televisions

LowBlueLights Medium Acrylic Blue Light Filter

Price: $54

LowBlueLights offers screen filters specifically for sleep and well-being. The acrylic filter is designed to block as much blue light emitted from televisions and computers as possible, using an orange tint. The filter comes with Velcro to help secure it onto large screens. Several online reviews praise the company’s customer service, product quality, and user-friendly website.

It’s important to note that due to the thickness of acrylic filters, they do not work on touchscreens. Instead, you can use a vinyl filter.

Best blue light screen protector for MacBook

Ocushield Anti Blue Light Filter for MacBook Air & Pro

Price: $55

Designed to fit MacBook Air and Pro models, the Ocushield blue light filter includes a privacy filter to ensure your screen isn’t visible to onlookers. It also retains color quality and protects against bacteria, scratches, and reflections. If your exact screen size isn’t available, you can buy a bigger size and use a knife to cut it down.

Ocushield donates £1 ($1.36 U.S.) to the Royal National Institute of Blind People with every order. Several reviews report that the Ocushield customer service team is courteous, helpful, and responsive.

What to look for when purchasing a blue light screen protector

Before you buy a blue light screen protector, consider the following:

• Company reputation. Look for a reputable company that backs product quality with a generous warranty or return policy. Read online customer reviews and ratings from Trustpilot or the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Check out the company’s website to get a feel for the brand.
• Product quality and effectiveness. Look for companies that use third-party testing and certification. Choose brands that are designed or recommended by healthcare professionals.
• Visual quality. To prevent distortion and discoloration, select a screen protector that retains the display’s original color and brightness.
• Size. Make sure the dimensions of the screen filter are the correct size for your device. Most brands offer filters to fit specific models.
• Additional features. Some filters will also include coatings that protect your screen from impacts, scratches, and smudges. Privacy and anti-glare filters are also available.

Additional ways to limit blue light exposure 

• Eyewear. You can wear prescription and nonprescription eyeglasses when you’re using electronics. Some eyewear can include blue light or glare reduction in the lenses for prolonged screen time.
• Night mode. You can use the night or dark mode feature built into your device.
• 20-20-20 exercise. Many eye doctors also suggest practicing the 20-20-20 rule. After about 20 minutes of looking at a screen, look at something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. No matter how far away or near you let your gaze go, the main goal is to look away from the screen and let your eyes take in other objects and distances to reduce strain and fatigue.
• Lightbulbs. If you feel screens are impacting your sleep, you can use blue-light-blocking lightbulbs, especially in the rooms where you spend the most time at night.
• Less screen time at night. When possible, limit your screen time, especially after sunset. Design a nighttime routine that will help you to wind down in the evening, so you can fall asleep more easily, experience deeper sleep, and wake up feeling energized.

The takeaway

Blue light from electronic devices may impact your sleep, vision, and overall well-being. For those times when you must be on your mobile phone, tablet, or computer, screen protectors and other options can reduce the impact.